High levels of sugar build up in the bloodstream when a person gets type 2 diabetes. Getting blood sugar levels under control helps prevent complications from the disease later on. Unfortunately, symptoms are often not that obvious. The disease may develop very slowly, and some people may think the symptoms are the result of something less serious than diabetes. Type 2 diabetes has life-changing effects that can be managed and learned in the early stage.
Warnings
When type 2 diabetes begins, the body is still making insulin, but the cells are unable to use it, which leads to insulin resistance. Risk factors include being overweight and inactive. Excess fat may limit the body's ability to use insulin. Some people have no symptoms. But indications you may have the disorder include increased hunger or thirst, a greater need to urinate, fatigue, very dry skin, blurry vision, weight loss and sometimes tingling and numbness, often in the hands or feet. It may take longer for sores or bruises to heal, and more infections may pop up.
Pre-diabetes
A person who has blood glucose levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diabetic, may have pre-diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. People who have pre-diabetes can take measures to delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes from developing. You may be able to do this through diet to lose weight and moderate exercise 30 minutes a day most days of the week. If you can catch pre-diabetes in time, you can help return elevated blood sugar levels to normal.
Learning to Manage
After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, it is crucial you begin managing the disorder to avoid serious complications that can be life threatening, the Mayo Clinic advises. You will need to build a close relationship with your doctor or the person who is overlooking your care. Diabetes is now part of your life, and you need to know the dangers it can cause if not properly managed. Schedule physical exams for regular checkups, and visits to an eye care specialist will also have to be made. Vision can be affected by diabetes. The doctor may advise you to take extra time looking at your body, particularly your feet, for blisters, cuts, sores or swelling that does not heal. You will also have to pay special attention to your teeth because diabetes increases the risk of gum infections. You should quit smoking if you smoke and drink alcohol moderately, if at all.
Health Issues
Diabetics need to develop a health plan with the help of a doctor to ensure good eating habits and exercising regularly. This will help maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which become greater risks with type 2 diabetes. Avoiding stress becomes a major issue for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The hormones in the body are less able to deal with stress when diabetes strikes. It is necessary to learn relaxation techniques, set limits and get adequate amounts of sleep.
